A Toast to Lexington’s 300th Celebration

On Friday, June 8th, over 50 Lexingtonians
gathered at the home of Katie and Andy Cutler to learn more about plans for the
300th Anniversary and to show their financial support. Guests,
including Selectman Norm Cohen, Linda Cohen, Selectman Hank Manz, and Wendy
Manz, moved around the rooms where “story boards” were on display detailing the
concepts of events such as the Opening Ceremony, Fashion Show, Old-Time
Baseball and much more. In addition to celebrating the exciting volunteer-led
events, many in the group have stepped forward with commitments to become
inaugural sponsors of the 300th. In all, the party was a great
success in raising awareness of the year to come, as well as to recruit new
volunteers and supporters of the imminent tercentennial.
Katie Cutler welcomed people and shared her strong interest
in seeing the 300th become the once-in-a-lifetime experience for
residents. Katie then introduced Sue Rockwell, Chair of the 300th,
and Jessie Steigerwald, Co-Chair of Events, who each thanked the dedicated
people working so hard to create the fabulous events and explained the
importance of celebrating over 300 years of our storied past and present.
Larry Link, Fundraising Committee, gratefully acknowledged the
inaugural group of individuals, families, corporate and organizational donors
who have signed up as early sponsors. Over a dozen families and Lexington
businesses have provided financial and in-kind support to make the 300th
not only possible but a huge success. “We are deeply appreciative of the many
residents and businesses who have given so generously of their time, talents,
and treasure to make Lexington a wonderful community,” Link commented.
Financial and volunteer support is critical to the success
of the nine months of 300th events and celebrations.Creative sponsorship packages encourage
donors to become involved at several levels. There is something for everyone –
gorgeous 300th Street Banners designed by Betsy Sarles, 300th
Commemorative Flags for home or business display, right up to sponsoring
specific venues and presenting events. We encourage you to review our
sponsorship levels
and then contact our fundraising committee atdonations@lexington300.org.Margaret Counts Klebe, Chair of Public Relations, remarked,
“What a great turnout! We had Selectmen, Town Meeting members, 300th
volunteers and other residents from all across Lexington, all eager to learn
about the 300th. We were thrilled to have such an enthusiastic
crowd.”The evening concluded with new
friendships and a shared pride in Lexington.The 300th Committee thanks Katie and Andy for sharing their
beautiful home and for getting the fund- and friend-raising off to a strong
start. We thank everyone for their generosity in underwriting the 300th
so far. We hope many others will find an appropriate way to add their own
support!